Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Believe it or not, I get emails from readers or bloggers that are just starting out, and they ask me how my blog came to have followers, and readers in such a short time. And I am truly flattered by the emails, but I also be sure to tell it like it is. So I thought I would do a post as well. For starters Freckles Chick did a post a while back on building blogger traffic and it was great, so check hers out as well.

BLOGGIN 101: By Tamara Styles

1.) Be nice to people. They spend their time reading your blog, and there are so many to choose from, so being nice is worth something I think.

2.) NEVER think you are better than the next blogger. Seriously, I run across so many that think the servers rise and shine on them. Not COOL. You always want to be approachable. Try to reply to emails, or help where you can within your boundaries.

3.) If people take the time to comment on your blog, at least take a few minutes to visit their blog, and say something. Its a form of thank you.

4.) Treat others as you would want to be treated. When you do gain readers, always remember when you had none. I say this a lot at work.... humble yourself!

5.) Anonymous comments...hmm some people really have no account and have no choice which is fine, and others like to hide behind the Anon name to leave negative comments and send sideway jabs at you. I ignore, ignore, ignore...I don't waste my time. I delete and move on, and never call them out. They can KICK ROCKS with the negativity! I have only had to delete maybe 3 so at this point...so far so good (knock on wood).

6.) When your visiting other blogs and leaving comments. Lets say the subject is: "Help me with my outfit" or "Should I buy this couch"...although they are asking for your help and opinion, there is a way to say anything. There is nothing worse then a condescending comment when you are asking for help. Remember your response is being read not heard, and not everyone knows your personality or how you are trying to come across.

7.) Don't let cliques bother you. They do exist, but do you always!

8.) Know your audience, and stick to something. I have blogs in my dashboard for different forms of entertainment. One may be for gossip, one fashion, one cooking..etc..etc...Now every now and then a random post is cool because it shows who you are as a blogger and what you like in your world. But again its like buying ESPN and reading soap opera recaps from it.

Great tips! I have also noticed cliques which has never made sense to me. I started blogging as a way to meet people I wouldn't have otherwise and that share my same interests. That's the point, isn't it? You were the first person to reach out to me and I've always appreciated that. Thanks, lady!

Well I too am a "newbie" and so far so good. Other then the fact that i have been sleepy out of my mind from the late night blogging i'm very satisifed EXCEPT when it comes to the followers.. I watch my stats and things are looking good, i am glad more and more come back and the referrals I LUV... BUT.. damn... i want more people to hit that follow button.. I have 9 followers but they arent a reflection of the actually amount of hits i get. what is there to do about this????

You NAILED it, Tam! I couldn't have written it better myself. Esp. the one about thinking one is all high & mighty and the foremost expert on something when they're clearly not. Hate to break it to these bloggers (I have a certain couple in mind), but chances are they were inspired by someone out there. Give credit where credit's due!

I'm working my way around my house doing some much needed renovations. And your BLOG is so informative. I can't stop reading..I have only read about 75% of your BLOG within the last hour. And ran across this one. And I really appreciate you standing behind your Bloggin 101 statements. It's extremely encouraging for Beginners like myself. I might actually attempt to paint something and save myself about $75 bucks.

Thanks for the info I just started blogging as well and it can be intimidating at times. Just hope that i don't offend anyone I have a pretty crude sense of humor but I'm not mean just a clown just trying to keep it real.

Hey thanks for this post. It is especially timely for me as I'm struggling with how to manage my blog right now. I see you are a 'tastemaker' in the black decor blogosphere, so I will be sure to check in often.

Just saw your fabulous painted walls & table through the West Elm fb feed - well done! Not only does the room look transformed but it should also be a great avenue for so many bloggers - like me - to find your fantastic blog!Thank you for your lovely & concise words on 'Bloggin 101: By Tamstyles'. I love your outlook! Will be adding you to my blog roll... Take care. Sarah xPalatial Living -palatialliving.blogspot.com

Thanks for this post!!! We're relatively new to blogging, but unfortunately have seen behavior that now makes sense after reading your post. It's sad, but we'll stay positive about it. While we don't intend to be blog gurus like yourself, we do enjoy blogging as another way of sharing and interacting with our community. I can definitely see how it can become addictive! -Nat

Thank you for the advice. I am revamping my blog and will have it up --- new, improved, and more personal --- in January. Your blog is inspirational. Meantime, if you want to check out mine, even while it is underconstruction: www.rozwrites.blogspot.com

Wow! Thank you for this post. As a new blogger, I am stiI am still learning the ropes and blog etiquette. I LOVE your blog, keep up the good work! And please throw me any constructive criticism for my blog! I am wondering if it is tooo busy... Should I scale it down, is it hard to read?www.basketsbysadi.blogspot.com